When presenting the 'Keeping Kids Safe on the iPad and iPhone' information session at a local school last week, I briefly discussed an option that can offer household-wide protection for ANY devices connected to home's internet - that of using a router that provides Parental Control Capabilities.

After the session, I sent a list of topical articles to the parents who attended that session - which included a handy article about options for such Parental Control routers.

I am including that particular article here for all other parents who subscribe to the iTandCoffee newsletter.​

For anyone who is interested ...

The router that I have used for several years now is the Netgear Nighthawke AC1900, which has a companion app called Netgear Genie.

This Netgear router is connected to our main Telstra router, but the Telstra router has its Wi-Fi signalling turned off - so that it is really just being used as a Modem. All connections in the household are through the Netgear router instead of the device provided by Telstra.

By setting up parental controls using something called OpenDNS, I can the set device-by-device controls, time restrictions, household-wide restrictions on content, and more.

I can use Netgear Genie to block any device immediately if I want to enforce downtime - whether that device be a TV with internet connection, a Playstation, a computer or a mobile device.

Follow us on Facebook

Join our growing community of local and online members who love learning about their technology - through FREE club sessions, remote/phone support, online tips, tricks and tutorials, special members-only offers and discounts, and more. Membership starts at only $49/year.

What's on at iTandCoffee ?

Join us for a short, fun 'topic of the day' classes known as PTT sessions (Personal Training for your Technology fitness!).Or join The iTandCoffee Club to attend weekly, fun 'user group' meetings to discuss your tech issues and queries.All classes are run as online classes during the COVID-19 crisis, which means you can attend from anywhere.​(We use Zoom Meetings for all online classes, and can help you get set up if you are not sure how to download and install it.)

​​Call 1300 885 420 ​to book an appointment or class, or to enquire about our services and products

SENIORS CARD WELCOME HERE:Seniors Card holders qualify for a 10% discount on all classes booked and paid for online (excludes PTT sessions and classes already discounted during COVID-19 crisis). To activate the discount at the time of booking, select Redeem Coupon or Gift Certificate and enter 10OFFSEN before selecting Pay Now.